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Railroad Track Inspector Jobs in Lexington, KY (NOW HIRING)

HDR, Inc.

Transportation Intern - KY

Nicholasville, KY · On-site

$14.75 - $19.25/hr

Participate in bridge inspections and site visits. Rail * Assist with rail plan production, design ... Track quantities, project progress, and payment documentation. * Gain experience with field visits ...

HDR, Inc.

Transportation Intern - KY

Nicholasville, KY

$14.75 - $19.25/hr

Participate in bridge inspections and site visits. Rail * Assist with rail plan production, design ... Track quantities, project progress, and payment documentation. * Gain experience with field visits ...

HDR

Transportation Intern - KY

Lexington, KY · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Participate in bridge inspections and site visits. Rail Assist with rail plan production, design ... Track quantities, project progress, and payment documentation. Gain experience with field visits ...

HDR

Transportation Intern - KY

Lexington, KY · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

... inspections and site visits. Rail • Assist with rail plan production, design details, and plan ... Track quantities, project progress, and payment documentation. • Gain experience with field ...

CRH

Quality Control Technician

Lexington, KY · On-site

$16.50 - $21/hr

... railing, Catalyst™ Fence Solutions, Sakrete ® packaged concrete, Amerimix ® mortar, Pebble ... Perform Pre-Pour inspections on product prior to pouring (Reinforcing, insert and hole locations ...

CRH

Quality Control Technician

Lexington, KY · On-site

$18.75 - $23.75/hr

... railing, Catalyst™ Fence Solutions, Sakrete ® packaged concrete, Amerimix ® mortar, Pebble ... Perform Pre-Pour inspections on product prior to pouring (Reinforcing, insert and hole locations ...

All JobsRailroad Track Inspector JobsRailroad Track Inspector Jobs in Lexington, KY

Railroad Track Inspector information

See Lexington, KY salary details

$12

$27

$51

How much do railroad track inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad track inspector in Lexington, KY is $27.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.41 and $31.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a railroad track inspector?

A Railroad Track Inspector is responsible for examining railroad tracks, switches, and related infrastructure to ensure they meet safety and operational standards. They identify defects, measure track alignment, and report necessary repairs to prevent accidents and service disruptions. Inspectors often use specialized tools and equipment to assess track conditions and document findings. Their work helps maintain the safety and efficiency of railway systems by ensuring compliance with federal and industry regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a railroad track inspector?

To thrive as a Railroad Track Inspector, you need a solid understanding of railroad track construction, maintenance standards, and safety regulations, often supported by relevant work experience or vocational training. Proficiency with specialized tools such as track gauges, ultrasonic testers, and inspection management software, along with certifications like FRA Track Safety Standards training, is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to work independently or in teams are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the safe and efficient operation of rail networks by enabling inspectors to identify and address track defects promptly.

What are some common challenges faced by railroad track inspectors and how can they be managed?

Railroad Track Inspectors frequently work in varying weather conditions, at different hours, and often have to travel to remote locations along rail lines. The role involves meticulous attention to detail and the ability to identify issues that may not be immediately visible, which can be physically demanding and requires strong focus over long shifts. Inspectors also face the challenge of meeting strict federal safety and documentation standards, necessitating ongoing training and adherence to regulatory protocols. To manage these challenges, many inspectors rely on strong teamwork, thorough planning, and utilizing the latest inspection technologies to boost accuracy and efficiency on the job.

How to become a railroad track inspector?

To become a railroad track inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant experience in railroad maintenance or inspection. Certification in safety standards and knowledge of track components are often required, and some positions may require a valid driver's license and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.

What is the salary of railroad track inspector in railway?

The average salary of a railroad track inspector in the railway industry typically ranges from $45,000 to $75,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Inspectors often work full-time, with some positions requiring overtime or travel to monitor track conditions and ensure safety standards are met.

What job categories do people searching Railroad Track Inspector jobs in Lexington, KY look for?

The top searched job categories for Railroad Track Inspector jobs in Lexington, KY are:

Railroad Track Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Track Inspector job openings in Lexington, KY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,558 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator - Nationwide Travel

Road & Rail Services

Frankfort, KY • On-site

$25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Road & Rail Services rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Heavy Equipment Operator - Railroad Track Maintenance
Home Base: Frankfort, Kentucky
Pay: $25.00 per hour
Travel: 100% Nationwide Travel
Job Type: Full-Time
Take Your Heavy Equipment Experience Nationwide
Road & Rail Services is seeking an experienced Heavy Equipment Operator to support railroad track construction and maintenance projects throughout the United States. Although this position is based out of Frankfort, Kentucky, it requires continuous nationwide travel.
This is not a local or home-daily opportunity. The Heavy Equipment Operator will travel between project locations and should expect to remain away from home for extended periods. This position is ideal for an experienced railroad professional who enjoys working outdoors, operating large equipment, and contributing to the safety and reliability of railroad infrastructure.
The Heavy Equipment Operator will work alongside track maintenance crews in active railroad environments. Success requires strong equipment operating skills, Maintenance of Way experience, dependable attendance, and an unwavering commitment to safety.
Heavy Equipment Operator Responsibilities
In this position, you will:
Operate backhoes, excavators, loaders, and other heavy construction equipment
Operate tampers, regulators, and rail-specific machinery when qualified
Support railroad track installation, maintenance, and repair projects
Remove and replace railroad ties, rail components, and track materials
Assist with track surfacing, alignment, grading, and stabilization
Identify track defects, equipment concerns, and unsafe job-site conditions
Inspect heavy equipment before use and report maintenance or repair needs
Load, unload, move, and organize project materials
Work near active tracks, moving equipment, and other railroad operations
Coordinate with supervisors and crew members to complete assignments
Follow company, customer, and Federal Railroad Administration safety requirements
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area
Required Qualifications
Qualified candidates must have:
At least two years of railroad track maintenance or Maintenance of Way experience
Previous experience working as a Heavy Equipment Operator
Experience operating equipment in a railroad, track, or industrial construction environment
Knowledge of railroad job-site safety and FRA requirements
A valid state-issued driver's license
The ability and willingness to travel 100% nationwide
The flexibility to remain away from home for extended assignments
The ability to work outdoors in heat, cold, rain, and changing weather
The physical ability to lift, bend, climb, stand, walk, and work on uneven surfaces
Strong communication, teamwork, and job-site awareness
Experience operating tampers, regulators, or other specialized railroad equipment is preferred. Previous employment with a Class I, short-line railroad, railroad contractor, or track construction company is also valuable.
Travel and Work Conditions
This is a 100% travel position based out of Frankfort, Kentucky. Projects may be located in multiple states, and schedules will vary according to customer and operational needs. Employees must be prepared to travel continuously and work in physically demanding outdoor railroad environments.
Benefits
Road & Rail Services offers eligible full-time employees:
Pay of $25.00 per hour
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) retirement plan with company matching
Paid holidays and vacation
Annual steel-toe boot allowance
Company-provided personal protective equipment
Training and professional skill development
Advancement opportunities
A veteran-friendly workplace
A promote-from-within culture
If you are an experienced Heavy Equipment Operator with railroad track maintenance knowledge and are prepared for 100% nationwide travel, apply today.
Road & Rail Services is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

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